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Security Guard Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

GDI Security Services

Security Guard

Pendergrass, GA

$15.40/hr

We are looking for a reliable Security Guard to maintain a safe and Secure environment. What We Offer: * Access to low-cost health and other insurance products * Bereavement and jury duty pay.

GDI Security Services

Security Guard

Pendergrass, GA · On-site

$15.40/hr

We are looking for a reliable Security Guard to maintain a safe and Secure environment. What We Offer: * Access to low-cost health and other insurance products * Bereavement and jury duty pay.

The Classic Center

Security Coverage Guard

Athens, GA · On-site

$15.85/hr

Join our team as a Security Event Guard In this role you'll play a vital role in protecting our assets and ensuring the safety of visitors and staff. We depend on our Security Guards to ensure venue ...

The Classic Center

Security Coverage Guard

Athens, GA

$15.85/hr

Join our team as a Security Event Guard In this role you'll play a vital role in protecting our assets and ensuring the safety of visitors and staff. We depend on our Security Guards to ensure venue ...

The Classic Center

Security Coverage Guard

Athens, GA · On-site

$15.85/hr

Join our team as a Security Event Guard In this role you'll play a vital role in protecting our assets and ensuring the safety of visitors and staff. We depend on our Security Guards to ensure venue ...

GardaWorld

Surveillance Security Gate Patrol

Athens, GA · On-site

$16/hr

Ready to suit up as a Surveillance Security Guard? What matters most about a role like this is your sharp eye, capturing every detail as you scan a series of screens. Tell us about your strong ...

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Security Guard information

See Athens, GA salary details

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How much do security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for security guard in Athens, GA is $18.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a security guard do?

Security Guards work in various organizations to provide site or inventory monitoring and crime prevention activities. This may include actively patrolling an area on foot or in a security vehicle, or standing guard at key entrances or exits. In other cases, Security Guards may monitor security video footage and check credentials for those entering a facility. In an emergency they help direct emergency vehicles and police; they may also administer basic first aid. Security Guards keep accurate logs of daily or nightly activities and report any concerns to their supervisor. Ultimately, a Security Guard seeks to de-escalate a conflict whenever possible, but on occasion, they may need to restrain an individual. A job as a Security Guard likely demands non-traditional hours; some facilities require security for nights, weekends, and holidays.

What is a security guard?

Security guards are professionals responsible for protecting property, assets, and people from theft, vandalism, and other potential dangers. They monitor surveillance equipment, patrol assigned areas, and enforce rules and regulations to maintain safety. Security guards may work in a variety of settings, including businesses, schools, hospitals, and public events. In addition to preventing crime, they often respond to emergencies and provide assistance to visitors or employees as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a security guard, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Security Guard, you need a keen sense of observation, basic security procedures knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by relevant licensing. Familiarity with surveillance systems, alarm panels, and incident reporting software is commonly required. Strong communication, alertness, and reliability are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial to effectively protect people and property, respond to emergencies, and maintain a secure environment.

What are some common challenges security guards face during their shifts, and how are these typically managed?

Security Guards often encounter challenges such as managing unauthorized access, handling emergencies, and dealing with difficult individuals. These situations require strong observation skills, quick decision-making, and adherence to established protocols. Most employers provide regular training and clear guidelines to help guards respond effectively and safely. Team communication and support from supervisors are also essential in ensuring that challenges are managed professionally and incidents are reported accurately.

What is the difference between Security Guard vs Security Officer?

AspectSecurity GuardSecurity Officer
CertificationsSecurity Guard license, sometimes specialized trainingSecurity Guard license, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentPrivate properties, retail stores, eventsCorporate buildings, government facilities, industrial sites
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, retail, event managementCorporations, government agencies, industrial companies

Security Guards and Security Officers often share similar certifications and work environments, but Security Officers typically work in more formal settings like corporate or government facilities. Both roles focus on maintaining safety and security, with the main difference being the specific work environment and employer type.

How hard is it to get hired as a security guard?

Getting hired as a security guard typically requires passing a background check, completing any required training or certification, and sometimes obtaining a license depending on the jurisdiction. Job availability can vary based on location, experience, and the specific employer's needs, but entry-level positions are generally accessible to those who meet the basic requirements.
More about Security Guard jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Guard jobs in Athens, GA?

The most popular types of Security Guard jobs in Athens, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Security Guard jobs in Athens, GA?

For Security Guard jobs in Athens, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Security Guard jobs in Athens, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Guard jobs in Athens, GA are:

What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Security Guard jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Security Guard job openings:

Security Guard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Guard job openings in Athens, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,228 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Security Guard

GDI Security Services

Pendergrass, GA

$15.40/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

GDI provides best in class integrated, high level, facility maintenance services to The United States and Canada. We have more than 30,000 team members who will effectively contribute to the success of ours and our customer’s businesses. With almost a century of facility service experience, state of the art business practices, environmentally friendly processes and supplies and an established global reputation, we are able to offer unrivaled client experience and satisfaction.

We are looking for a reliable Security Guard to maintain a safe and Secure environment.

What We Offer:

  • Access to low-cost health and other insurance products
  • Bereavement and jury duty pay.
  • Uniforms furnished to officers at no cost.
  • Longevity awards and safety incentives
  • Opportunity for Advancement
  • Assistance in applying for and obtaining a state license to work as security guard (where required)
  • Flexible scheduling

Responsibilities:

  • Monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules.
  • Fill out reports with a high level of detail.
  • Review reports and communicate effectively.
  • Proficient with computer. 
  • Thoroughly examine doors, windows, and gates to ensure proper function and security.
  • Warn violators of premise rules and regulations
  • Report any facility issues such as fire hazards and leaking water pipes.
  • Request emergency personnel for high-risk situations
  • Successfully use the provided software to annotate events that occur during shift.
  • Make regular trips around the property and scan the pre-determined points as directed by management.
  • Work as part of a team

Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in security, military, law enforcement, or other related fields
  • Familiarity with security equipment
  • Ability to handle a light physical workload. Ability to stand and/or walk assigned patrols.
  • Strong attention to detail
  • H.S. Diploma or equivalent
  • Meet and continuously maintain grooming standards.
  • Have a reliable means of transportation 

This organization participates in E-Verify

Equal Opportunity Employer

GDI, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and takes pride in maintaining a diverse environment. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

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